Grab that Ho-Ho-Mojito, a pack of pretzels and settle in at the PNC Arts Annex for a little Christmas Cheer. From the moment it kicks off with a jazzed-up version of ‘This Christmas,’ we are reminded that the HOLIDAYS are back! No more bah-humbug, isolation or streaming television necessary. It’s live and it’s lively. That alone is something to sing about!
Philip Drennen and Gina Handy provide an energetic 3-act Christmas show, backed up by Deron Bell and his Merry-Makers. Each song, though familiar, seems to take on a live of its own when the band infuses jazz, swing and…yep…FUNK! There are some truly memorable moments in the set. ‘It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas’ takes on a smooth almost etherial tone. ‘The Christmas Song’ gives you a somber start, but an uplifting finish. And for the purest, Handy nails ‘Merry Christmas, Darling.’ The one you will leave loving is ‘Baby, It’s Cold Outside.’ It’s fun, silly and timely!
Centered in the audience is a mailbox, where requests are taken, and performed during the 2nd and 3rd act. This makes for some fun chat with the audience. You learn of people’s wishes for the Holiday, and why certain songs ‘mean so much.’ It is truly the magnificent talent of Bell’s band that allows the show to flow. They seamlessly answer requests with spot-on versions of Christmas classics, and then some.
Dayton, once again, proves you don’t need to search for talent outside of our city limits. Take special note of the duets, as Handy and Drennen blend, back-up and harmonize with each as if they’VE been doing it for years!
‘Season’s Greetings’ is not big, and that is the point. It’s intimate, close-knit…more of a family ‘sing-along.’ The Holidays are about gathering…and laughing….and reminiscing. With all of that in mind, get your tickets for this charmer. Bring your mom, grandma….the one you love….and remember what Karen carpenter sang, ‘Everyday’s a Holiday when I’m next to you!’ That’s it…that’s this show, in a nutshell!!
General Information:
***If you are part of the WHAMAGGEDON Challenge, beware!
When: Dec. 9, 10, 12, 15, 16 and 19 at 7:30 p.m.
@: PNC Arts Annex, 46 W. Second St., Dayton
Cost: $25-$35
For Tix: Call 937-228-3630 or
you can visit daytonlive.org/seasons-greetings
FYI: Masks are required for patrons 6 and over
